Oral care implement

ABSTRACT

An oral implement comprises a head ( 10 ) and a handle ( 12 ). The head ( 10 ) comprises a first face ( 14 ) and a plurality of cleaning elements ( 34, 36 ) extending therefrom, a proximal section ( 16 ) adjacent to the handle ( 12 ) and a distal section ( 18 ) remote from the handle ( 12 ). The head ( 10 ) further comprises a flexible bridge ( 20 ) coupling the distal section ( 18 ) to the proximal section ( 16 ), so that the distal section ( 18 ) is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal section ( 16 ). The flexible bridge ( 20 ) further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face ( 14 ); wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge ( 20 ) in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head ( 10 ).

BACKGROUND

Oral care implements with various handle and head structures are known. However, it would be desirable to provide an oral care implement which can provide increased ease of access to the back teeth for cleaning, while avoiding problems caused by excess brushing pressure.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In one aspect, the present invention provides an oral care implement comprising a head and a handle, the head comprising a first face and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the first face;

wherein the head comprises a proximal section adjacent to the handle and a distal section remote from the handle;

wherein the head further comprises a flexible bridge coupling the distal section to the proximal section so that the distal section is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal section, the flexible bridge further comprising at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head.

Optionally a longitudinal axis of the distal section is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis of the proximal section by an angle of from 8° to 15°.

Optionally a longitudinal axis of the distal section is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the proximal section.

Optionally the proximal section and the distal section each have a straight linear edge extending in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head, wherein the straight linear edge of the distal section faces the straight linear edge of the proximal section, and wherein the flexible bridge couples the straight linear edge of the distal section to the straight linear edge of the proximal section so that the distal section is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal section

Optionally the flexible bridge comprises an elastomeric material. Further optionally, the elastomeric material comprises thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge.

Optionally the proximal section and the distal section are formed from a rigid plastic or resin material.

Optionally the rigid plastic or resin material comprises polypropylene.

Optionally the flexible bridge comprises abridging section formed from the rigid plastic or resin material, the bridging section joining the proximal section to the distal section, wherein a ratio of a depth of the bridging section at its narrowest point to a depth of the proximal section is from 1:3 to 1:7.

Optionally the bridging section extends across an entire width of the head.

Optionally the head further comprises a second face on an opposite side of the head to the first face, and wherein the bridging section is located between the first face and the second face.

Optionally a distance between the bridging section and the first face is greater than a distance between the bridging section and the second face. Further optionally, the distance between the bridging section and the first face is from 2 to 4 times greater than the distance between the bridging section and the second face.

Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the at least one bridging section.

Optionally the elastomeric material comprises thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge.

Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is an elastomeric wall.

Optionally the elastomeric wall extends along the flexible bridge in a straight, linear configuration.

Optionally the elastomeric wall has a distal edge remote from the first face, the elastomeric wall comprising at least one notch extending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face of the head.

Optionally the elastomeric wall has a height measured from the first face to the distal edge of the elastomeric wall, the least one notch extending from the distal edge towards the first face by a distance of from ⅝ to ⅞ of the height of the elastomeric wall.

Optionally the plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements extending from the proximal section, and a second plurality of cleaning elements extending from the distal section.

Optionally the first plurality of cleaning elements comprises tapered bristles.

Optionally the second plurality of cleaning elements comprises tape red bristles.

Optionally the tapered bristles are tufted in square tuft holes.

Optionally a height of the first plurality of cleaning elements is equal to a height of the second plurality of cleaning elements.

Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is equal to the height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements.

Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is less than the height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements.

Optionally the head further comprises a second face located on an opposite side of the head to the first face, the second face comprising a tissue cleanser.

Optionally the tissue cleanser comprises an elastomeric material.

Optionally the flexible bridge comprises the elastomeric material and wherein the tissue cleanser is integral with the flexible bridge.

Optionally the head has a length of from 20 mm to 40 mm.

Optionally the head has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm.

Optionally the distal section has a length which is less than a length of the proximal section. Further optionally, the ratio of the length of the distal section to the length of the proximal section is from 1:3 to 1:1.2.

Optionally the handle includes a body portion, and a neck portion connecting the head to the body portion.

Optionally a longitudinal axis of the neck portion is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the proximal section of the head.

Optionally a longitudinal axis of the body portion is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis of the neck portion by an angle of from 5° to 15°.

Optionally the neck portion has a maximum width of from 3 mm to 7 mm.

Optionally the body portion has a maximum width of from 9 mm to 15 mm.

In another aspect, the present invention provides oral care implement comprising a head and a handle, the head comprising a first face and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the first face; wherein the head comprises a proximal section adjacent to the handle and a distal section remote from the handle; wherein the head further comprises a flexible bridge coupling the distal section to the proximal section so that the distal section is flexibly move able relative to the proximal section; wherein the plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements extending from the proximal section, and a second plurality of cleaning elements extending from the distal section, at least one of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements comprising tapered bristles.

Optionally the first plurality of cleaning elements comprises tape red bristles.

Optionally the second plurality of cleaning elements comprises tapered bristles.

Optionally the tapered bristles are tufted in square tuft holes.

Optionally a height of the first plurality of cleaning elements is equal to a height of the second plurality of cleaning elements.

Optionally a longitudinal axis of the distal section is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis of the proximal section by an angle of from 8° to 15°.

Optionally a longitudinal axis of the distal section is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the proximal section.

Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head.

Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is an elastomeric wall.

Optionally the elastomeric wall extends along the flexible bridge in a straight, linear configuration.

Optionally the elastomeric wall has a distal edge remote from the first face, the elastomeric wall comprising at least one notch extending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face of the head.

Optionally the elastomeric all has a height measured from the first face to the distal edge of the elastomeric wall, the least one notch extending from the distal edge towards the first face by a distance of from ⅝ to ⅞ of the height of the elastomeric wall.

Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is equal to a height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements.

Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is less than a height of the first and sec and pluralities of de ailing elements.

Optionally the flexible bridge comprises an elastomeric material. Further optionally, the elastomeric material comprises thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge.

Optionally the proximal section and the distal section are formed from a rigid plastic or resin material. Further optionally, the rigid plastic or resin material comprises polypropylene.

Optionally the flex Dole bridge comprises abridging section formed from the rigid plastic or resin material, the bridging section joining the proximal section to the distal section, wherein a ratio of a depth of the bridging section at its narrowest point to a depth of the proximal section is from 1:3 to 1:7.

Optionally the bridging section extends across an entire width of the head.

Optionally the head further comprises a second face on an opposite side of the head to the first face, and wherein the bridging section is located between the first face and the second face.

Optionally, a distance between the bridging section and the first face is greater than a distance between the bridging section and the second face. Further optionally, the distance between the bridging section and the first face is from 2 to 4 times greater than the distance between the bridging section and the second face.

Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the at least one bridging section. Further optionally, the elastomeric material comprises thermoplastic elastomer (ME).

Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flex Dole bridge.

Optionally the head further comprises a second face located on an opposite side of the head to the first face, the second face comprising a tissue cleanser.

Optionally the tissue cleanser comprises an elastomeric material.

Optionally the flexible bridge comprises the elastomeric material and the tissue cleanser is integral with the flexible bridge.

Optionally the head has a length of from 20 mm to 40 mm.

Optionally the head has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm.

Optionally the distal section has a length which is less than a length of the proximal section.

Optionally the ratio of the length of the distal section to the length of the proximal section is from 1:3 to 1:1.2.

Optionally the handle includes a body portion, and a neck portion connecting the head to the body portion.

Optionally a longitudinal axis of the neck portion is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the proximal section of the head

Optionally a longitudinal axis of the body portion is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis of the neck portion by an angle of from 5° to 15°.

Optionally the neck portion has a maximum width of from 3 mm to 7 mm.

Optionally the body portion has a maximum width of from 9 mm to 15 mm.

Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. In particular, any of the various features of the oral care implement as discussed below in connection with various embodiments could be combined.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1A illustrates a side view of a toothbrush in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1B illustrates a front view of the toothbrush of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C illustrates a rear view of the toothbrush of FIG. 1A.

FIGS. 2A to 2F illustrate a toothbrush head in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2A shows a front view of the head.

FIG. 2B shows a rear view of the head.

FIG. 2C shows a side vie w of the head.

FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the toothbrush head, illustrating the flexible movement of the distal section with respect to the proximal section.

FIG. 2E shows a perspective view of the toothbrush head in which the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge has be en omitted in order to show the bridging structure.

FIG. 2F shows a side view of the toothbrush head of FIG. 2E, in which the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements have been omitted.

FIGS. 3A to 3E illustrate a toothbrush head in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3A shows a front view of the head.

FIG. 3B shows a rear view of the head.

FIG. 3C shows a side view of the head.

FIG. 3D is a perspective vie w of the toothbrush head, illustrating the flexible movement of the distal section with respect to the proximal section.

FIG. 3E shows a perspective view of the toothbrush head in which the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge has be en omitted in order to show the bridging structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

As used throughout, ranges are used as shorthand for describing each and every value that is within the range. Any value within the range can be selected as the terminus of the range. In addition, all references cited herein are hereby incorporated by referenced in their entireties. In the event of a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and that of a cited reference, the present disclosure controls.

The description of illustrative embodiments according to principles of the present invention is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description of embodiments of the invention disclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horiziontal,” “Vertical,” “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally” “downwardly” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation unless explicitly indicated as such. Terms such as “attached,” “affixed,” “connected,” “coupled,” “interconnected,” and similar refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. Moreover, the features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference to the exemplified embodiments. Accordingly, the invention expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments illustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features; the scope of the invention being defined by the claims appended hereto.

In the following description, the invention is discussed in terms of a manual toothbrush, and method of manufacturing the same, having the inventive multi-component handle. However, in other forms, the invention could be in the form of other oral care implements including a soft-tissue cleansing implement, an inter-proximal pick, a flossing tool, a plaque scraper, a powered toothbrush, or other ansate implement designed for oral care. It is also to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and that structural and functional modifications maybe made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

FIGS. 1A to 1C illustrate a toothbrush in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a distal section 18 of the head 10 (the distal section 18 being remote from the handle 12) is coupled to a proximal section 16 of the head 10 (the proximal section 16 being adjacent to the handle 12) by a flexible bridge 20 so that the distal section 18 is flexibly movable with respect to the proximal section 16 (as illustrated in FIG. 2D). In this embodiment, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is tilted by an angle α with respect to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16, the angle α being approximately 13°. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the longitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22 of the handle 12 is tilted by an angle β with respect to the longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 of the handle 12. In this embodiment, the angle β is approximately 10°. The longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 of the head 10.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1C, the ratio of the length of the distal section 18 to the length of the proximal section 16 is approximately 1:1.3, the distal section 18 having a length of 11.6 mm and the proximal section 16 having a length of 15.3 mm. The total length of the head 10 (as measured along the direction of the Y-Y axis) is 29.1 mm. The distal section 18 has a width of 9.3 mm and the proximal section 16 has a width of 10.7 mm.

The head 10 of the toothbrush of FIGS. 1A to 1C is shown in more detail in FIGS. 2A to 2F. However, the head as shown in FIGS. 2A to 2F could also be used in other embodiments of the present invention. It is also noted that the head as shown in FIGS. 3A to 3E could be used with the handle as illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1C.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2F, the head 10 comprises a first face 14, with a plurality of cleaning elements extending therefrom. The plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements 34 extending from the proximal section 16, and a second plurality of cleaning elements 36 extending from the distal section 18. The first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 comprise tapered bristles tufted in square tuft holes 38, which tuft holes 38 have dimensions of 1.40 mm×1.40 mm. The first plurality of cleaning elements 34 have a length which is equal to that of the second plurality of cleaning elements 36.

The head 10 includes square tuft holes 38 which are positioned in a grid arrangement of columns and rows on the proximal and distal sections 16, 18. The centres of tuft holes 38 in adjacent columns are spaced apart by 2.50 mm in the distal section 18 and by 2.20 mm in the proximal section 16. The centres of tuft holes 38 in adjacent rows are spaced apart by 2.55 mm in both the proximal and distal sections 16, 18. The distal section 18 includes a distal-most row 40 of tuft holes 38, wherein the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 are spaced apart from one another by 2.23 mm. The distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 and a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the distal-most row 40 is 2.43 mm. The proximal section 16 includes a proximal-most row 42 of tuft holes, wherein the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 are spaced apart from one another by 2.20 mm. The distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 and a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the proximal-most row 42 is 2.66 mm. In the distal- and proximal-most rows 40, 42 the tuft holes 38 are offset with respect to the columns. The centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 are spaced at a distance of 1.10 mm from a line joining the centres of the tuft holes of a column disposed on the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18. The centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 are spaced at a distance of 1.10 mm from lines joining the centres of the tuft holes of each column of the proximal section 16.

The head 10 further comprises a second face 32, which second face 32 comprises a tissue cleanser 44. The tissue cleanser 44 comprises a plurality of nubs 46 for cleansing soft tissues of the mouth.

In this embodiment, the distal section 18 and the proximal section 16 are fanned of polypropylene. As illustrated in FIGS. 2D to 2F, the flexible bridge 20 comprises a bridging section 30 formed from the polypropylene, which bridging section 30 joins the proximal and distal sections 16, 18 and is located between the first face 14 and the second face 32. The ratio of the depth of the bridging section 30 at its narrowest point to the depth of the proximal section 16 is approximately 1:6. The depth of the proximal section 16 is equal to the depth of the distal section 18, and is 5.3 mm. The distance between the bridging section 30 and the first face 14 is approximately 4 times the distance between the bridging section 30 and the second face 32. The flexible bridge 20 further comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the bridging section 30, and the tissue cleanser 44 is integral with the flexible bridge 20.

FIGS. 3A to 3E illustrate a toothbrush head in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the head 10 includes a proximal section 16 adjacent to the handle 12, and a distal section 18 remote from the handle 12. The proximal section 16 and the distal section 18 are joined by a flexible bridge 20. In the embodiment shown, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16. The proximal section 16 and distal section 18 each have a straight linear edge extending in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head 10, wherein the straight linear edge 48 of the distal section 18 faces the straight linear edge 50 of the proximal section 16. The flexible bridge 20 couples the straight linear edge 48 of the distal section 18 to the straight linear edge 50 of the proximal section 16, so that the distal section 18 is flexibly movable with respect to the proximal section 16 (as illustrated in FIG. 3D). The ratio of the length of the distal section 18 to the length of the proximal section 16 is approximately 1:1.3, the distal section 18 having a length of 11.6 mm and the proximal section 16 having a length of 15.4 mm. The total length of the head 10 is 30.1 mm. The distal section 18 has a width of 9.3 mm and the proximal section 16 has a width of 10.7 mm.

The flexible bridge 20 further comprises an elastomeric cleaning element 26 extending from the first face 14, which elastomeric cleaning element 26 extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the head 10.

The elastomeric cleaning element 26 is an elastomeric wall extending along the flexible bridge in a straight, linear configuration, and has a distal edge remote from the first face. The elastomeric wall comprises a notch 28 extending from the distal edge towards the first face 14 by a distance of about 618 of the height of the elastomeric wall.

The proximal and distal sections 16, 18 are formed of polypropylene and the flexible bridge comprises a bridging section 30 formed of the polypropylene. The bridging section joins the proximal section 16 to the distal section 18, and is located between the first face 14 and the second face 32. The second face 32 comprises a tissue cleanser 44. The flexible bridge 20 further comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the bridging section 30, and the tissue cleanser 44 is integral with the flexible bridge 20. The tissue cleanser 44 comprises a plurality of nubs, 46.

The proximal section 16 comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements 34 extending from the first face 14, and the distal section 18 comprises a second plurality of cleaning elements 36 extending from the first face 14. The first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 comprise tapered bristles tufted in square tuft holes 38, which tuft holes have dimensions of 1.40 mm×1.40 mm. The first plurality of cleaning elements 34 have a length which is equal to that of the second plurality of cleaning elements 36. The head 10 includes square tuft holes 38 which are positioned in a grid arrangement of columns and rows on the proximal and distal sections 16, 18 (as described above in relation to the arrangement of tuft holes 38 in FIGS. 2A to 2F). The distal section 18 includes a distal-most row 40 of tuft holes 38 and the proximal section 16 includes a proximal-most row 42 of tuft holes wherein, in the distal- and proximal-most rows 40, 42, the tuft holes 38 are offset with respect to the columns (as described above in relation to the arrangement of tuft holes 38 in FIGS. 2A to 2F).

The elastomeric cleaning element 26 has a height which is less than the height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36.

In one aspect, the present invention provides an oral care implement comprising a head 10 and a handle 12, the head 10 comprising a first face 14 and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the first face 14. The head 10 comprises a proximal section 16 adjacent to the handle 12, a distal section 18 remote from the handle 12, and a flexible bridge 20 coupling the distal section 18 to the proximal section 16 so that the distal section 18 is flexibly movable relative to the proximal section 16. The flexible bridge 20 further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 extending from the first face 14. The at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head 10. The elastomeric cleaning element 26 acts to polish the tooth surfaces and clean the teeth.

The flexible bridge 20 allows the distal section 18 to move forward and backward relative to the proximal section 16 during use of the oral care implement, allowing the oral care implement to reach deep into the mouth to clean the back teeth. This flexibility also reduces or prevents excess pressure being applied to the back teeth when brushing.

In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 by an angle a of from 8° to 15°, from 9° to 14°, from 10° to 13°, or of about 13°. In these embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is tilted by the above angle a with respect to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 when the oral care implement is in a stressless state i.e. when no force is being applied to the implement in order to cause the distal section 18 to move relative to the proximal section 16 (such as when the implement is not in use). The distal section 18 can move with respect to the proximal section 16 upon application of force during use, but returns to its initial position with the axis X-X inclined by angle a with respect to the axis Y-Y once any applied force has been removed. The longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section being tilted by angle α with respect to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 allows the head to fit to the curve of the teeth, and the flexible bridge allows the head to adapt to the contours of the teeth/tooth surface.

In other embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16. In these embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 when the oral care implement is in a stressless state i.e. when no force is being applied to the implement in order to cause the distal section 18 to move relative to the proximal section 16 (such as when the implement is not in use). The distal section 18 can move with respect to the proximal section 16 upon application of force during use, but returns to its initial position with the axis X-X substantially aligned with the axis Y-Y once any applied force has been re moved.

In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18 each have a straight linear edge extending in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head 10, wherein the straight linear edge 48 of the distal section 18 faces the straight linear edge 50 of the proximal section 16. In these embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 couples the straight linear edge 48 of the distal section 18 to the straight linear edge 50 of the proximal section 16 so that the distal section 18 is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal section 16.

In some embodiments, the handle 12 includes a body portion 22, and a neck portion 24 connecting the head 10 to the body portion 22. In various embodiments, a longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 of the head 10. In various embodiments, a longitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22 is tilted with respect to the longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 by an angle β of from 5° to 15°, from 6° to 14°, from 7° to 13°, from 8° to 12°, from 9° to 11°, or of about 10°. The provision of this angle β between the longitudinal axes A-A and Z-Z of the body portion 22 and the neck portion 24, respectively results in an ergonomic handle which allows the user to reach the back teeth more easily.

In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 by an angle α of from 8° to 15°, from 9° to 14°, from 10° to 13°, or of about 13°, and the longitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion by an angle β of from 5° to 15°, from 6° to 14°, from 7° to 13°, from 8° to 12°, from 9° to 11°, or of about 10°. The provision of both angle β between the longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 and the longitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22, and angle α between the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 and the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16, provides for improved reach of the oral care implement to clean the back teeth and rear-most areas of the mouth.

In some embodiments, the body portion 22 comprises a thumb grip 52 located adjacent to the area of connection of the body portion 22 to the neck portion 24. In one embodiment, the body portion 22 comprises the thumb grip 52 on one side thereof and a finger grip area 54 on an opposite side thereof; wherein the thumb grip 52 is located on the same side of the oral care implement as the lust face 14 of the head 10. The thumb grip 52 maybe embossed/textured so as to provide an anti-slip area for increased ease of gripping of the oral care implement by a user. Where the thumb grip 52 is embossed or textured, this may also provide a massaging effect on the thumb of a user. In some embodiments, the thumb grip 52 comprises an elastomeric material in order to provide a comfortable gripping area. In such embodiments, the elastomeric material provides a yipping surface which is softer than the material (such as a rigid plastic or resin material e.g. polypropylene) from which the body portion and/or neck portion are formed.

In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a length which is less than a length of The proximal section 16. In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a length of from 9 mm to 13 mm, from 10 mm to 12.5 mm, from 11 mm to 12 mm or of about 11.5 mm. In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 has a length of from 14.5 mm to 17 mm, from 15 mm to 16 mm, or of about 15.4 mm. In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a length of from 11 mm to 12 mm and the proximal section 16 has a length of from 15 to 16 mm. The distal section 18 is thus able to cover the surface of a single tooth, thus providing improved ease of reach of the oral care implement to the back teeth in the mouth, while the proximal section 16 ensures an acceptable total length of the head.

In various embodiments, the ratio of the length of the distal section 18 to the length of the proximal section 16 is from 1:3 to 1:1.2, from 1:2.5 to 1:1.2, from 1:2 to 1:1.3 or about 1:1.3.

In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises an elastomeric material. Suitable elastomeric mate rials include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

In various embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge 20.

In various embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 is an elastomeric wall. In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a straight, linear configuration.

In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall has a distal edge remote from the first face 14, the elastomeric wall comprises at least one notch 28 extending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face 14 of the head 10. The notch 28 ensures that the elastomeric cleaning wall is of the correct level of softness to provide acceptable mouthfeel to the consumer. In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall has a height measured from the first face 14 to the distal edge of the elastomeric wall, the least one notch 28 extending from the distal edge towards the first face 14 by a distance of from ⅝ to ⅞ of the height of the elastomeric wall. The further the notch 28 extends from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face, the greater the level of softness of the elastomeric wall.

In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18 are formed from a rigid plastic or resin material. In various embodiments, the rigid plastic or resin material comprises polypropylene.

In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises a bridging section 30 formed from the rigid plastic or resin material. The bridging section 30 joins the proximal section 16 to the distal section 18. The presence of the bridging section 30 can provide increased ease of manufacture, for example if the head is injection-molded then the bridging section allows the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18 to be formed integrally connected by the bridging section 30. A ratio of a depth D₁ of the bridging section 30 at its narrowest point to a depth D₂ of the proximal section 16 is from 1:3 to 1:7, from 1:3.5 to 1:6, or from 1:4 to 1:5, so that the distal section 18 is flexibly movable relative to the proximal section 16, despite being connected thereto by the bridging section 30. In some embodiments, the depth D₂ of the proximal section is from 4 mm to 6 mm, from 4.5 mm to 6 mm, or from 5 mm to 5.5 mm. The depth of the distal section 18 maybe the same as the depth of the proximal section 16. In some embodiments, the bridging section 3U extends across an entire width of the head 10.

The length of the flexible bridge (in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16) maybe from 1.7 mm to 3.2 mm, from 2 mm to 3 mm, or from 2.3 mm to 2.7 mm. In some embodiments, a ratio of the length of the flexible bridge 20 to the length of the distal section 18 is from 1:3 to 1:5, from 1:3.5 to 1:4.5, from 1:3.8 to 1:4.2, or about 1:4. This allows for the oral care implement to have sufficient bristle density along the length of the head for effective cleaning of the teeth, while providing an acceptable level of flexibility of the distal section 18 relative to the proximal section 16.

In some embodiments, the head 10 further comprises a second face 32 on an opposite side of the head 10 to the first face 14, and the bridging section 30 is located between the first face 14 and the second face 32. In some embodiments, a distance between the bridging section 30 and the first face 14 is greater than a distance between the bridging section 30 and the second face 32, providing the desired flexibility of movement of the distal section 18 relative to the proximal section 16. In some embodiments, the distance between the bridging section 30 and the first face 14 is from 2 to 4 times greater, from 2.5 to 3.5 times greater, or about 3 times greater than the distance between the bridging section 30 and the second face 32.

In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 further comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the at least one bridging section 30. Examples of such elastomeric materials include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

In some embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge 20.

In some embodiments, the plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements 34 extending from the proximal section 16, and a second plurality of cleaning elements 36 extending from the distal section 18.

In some embodiments, the first plurality of cleaning elements 34 comprises tapered bristles. In certain embodiments, the second plurality of cleaning elements 36 comprises tapered bristles. In various embodiments, both the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 comprise tapered bristles. In some embodiments, portions of the first plurality of cleaning elements 34 are tapered. In some embodiments, portions of the second plurality of cleaning elements 36 are tapered. In some embodiment, portions of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 are tapered.

In some embodiments, the first and/or second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 are tapered.

In some embodiments, the tapered bristles are tufted in square tuft holes 38. The provision of the tapered bristles in the square tuft holes 38 allows the bristles to reach deep into the interdental areas in order to provide effective cleaning, whilst providing bristle softness for optimal gum care. The provision of square tuft holes enhances cleaning of the tooth surfaces, as the contact area of the bristles of a particular tuft on the tooth surface is greater for a square tuft hole than for a round tuft hole of similar dimensions. In some embodiments, the tuft holes on the first face 14 have dimensions of 0.8 mm×0.8 mm to 2.0 mm×2.0 mm; of 1.0 mm×1.0 mm to 1.8 mm×1.8 mm; of 1.2 mm×1.2 mm to 1.5 mm×1.5 mm; or of about 1.4 mm×1.4 mm. In various embodiments, the head comprises tuft holes 38 which are positioned in a grid arrangement of columns (parallel to the longitudinal axes X-X and Y-Y of the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18) and rows (perpendicular to the longitudinal axes X-X and Y-Y of the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18). In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive rows is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.6 mm, or about 2.5 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive columns on the distal section is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.6 mm, or about 2.5 mm, and the distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive columns on the proximal section is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm. In some embodiments, the head includes a distal-most row 40 of tuft holes 38 and a proximal-most row 42 of tuft holes 38, in which rows the tuft holes are not aligned with the columns fanned by tuft holes of other rows. In some embodiments, the tuft holes of the proximal- and distal-most rows 40, 42 are offset with respect to the columns. In some embodiments, the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 are spaced by a distance of from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, from 0.8 mm to 1.3 mm, from 1.2 mm to 1.3 mm, or about 1.10 mm from a line joining the centres of the tuft holes of a column disposed on the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18. In some embodiments, the centres of the tun holes in the proximal-most row 42 are spaced by a distance of from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, from 0.8 mm to 1.3 mm, from 1.2 mm to 1.3 mm, or about 1.10 mm from lines joining the centres of the tuft holes of the columns of the proximal section 16 from which the tuft holes of the proximal-most row are offset. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-mast row 40 and a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the distal-most row 40 is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from 2.3 mm to 2.5 mm, or about 2.4 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 and a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the proximal-most row 42 is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.9 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.8 mm, or about 2.6 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm, and the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm.

In some embodiments, a height of the first plurality of cleaning elements 34 is equal to a height of the second plurality of cleaning elements 36.

In various embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 has a height which is equal to the height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36.

In other embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 has a height which is less than the height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36.

In some embodiments, head 10 further comprises a second face 32 located on an opposite side of the head 10 to the first face 14, the second face 32 comprising a tissue cleanser 44. In some embodiments, the tissue cleanser comprises a plurality of nubs 46 for cleansing soft tissues of the mouth e.g. the insides of the cheeks and lips, and the tongue. The inclusion of the tissue cleanser 44 allows the oral care implement to provide thorough cleaning of the oral cavity, with cleansing of soft tissues as well as cleaning of the teeth.

In some embodiments, the tissue cleanser 42 comprises an elastomeric material. Examples of suitable elastomeric material which maybe used for the tissue cleanser 42 include, but are not limited to thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises the elastomeric material and the tissue cleanser 42 is integral with the flexible bridge 20.

In certain embodiments, the head 10 has a length of from 20 mm to 40 mm, from 25 mm to 35 mm, from 27 mm to 33 mm, or about 30 mm, or about 29 mm. In some embodiments, the head 10 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm, from 7 mm to 13 mm, from 9 mm to 12 mm, or about 11 mm. In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 13 mm, from 7 mm to 12 mm, from 8 mm to 11 mm, or of about 9 mm. In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm, from 7 mm to 13 mm, from 9 mm to 12 mm, or about 11 mm. In some embodiments, the maximum width of the distal section 18 is less than the maximum width of the proximal section 16. The compact head (and particularly the compact size of the distal section 18) also assists in reaching of hard-to-reach areas of the mouth, such as the back teeth, particularly for users having a smaller oral cavity size than that for which many oral care implements are designed.

In some embodiments, the neck portion 24 has a maximum width of from 3 mm to 7 mm, from 4 mm to 6 mm, or of about 5 mm.

In some embodiments, the body portion 22 has a maximum width of from 9 mm to 15 mm, from 10 mm to 14 mm, from 11 mm to 13 mm, or of about 15 mm.

In another aspect, the present invention provides an oral care implement comprising a head 10 and a handle 12, the head 10 comprising a first face 14 and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the first face 14. The head 10 comprises a proximal section 16 adjacent to the handle 12 and a distal section 18 remote from the handle 12. The head 10 further comprises a fie :dole bridge 20 coupling the distal section 18 to the proximal section 16 so that the distal section 18 is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal section 18. The plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements 34 extending from the proximal section 16, and a second plurality of cleaning elements 36 extending from the distal section 18, at least one of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements comprising tapered bristles.

In some embodiments, the first plurality of cleaning elements 34 comprises tapered bristles. In certain embodiments, the second plurality of cleaning elements 36 comprises tapered bristles. In various embodiments, both the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 comprise tapered bristles.

In some embodiments, the tapered bristles are tufted in square tuft holes 38. The provision of square tuft holes enhances cleaning of the tooth surfaces, as the contact area of the bristles of a particular tuft on the tooth surface is greater for a square tuft hole than for a round tuft hole of similar dimensions. In some embodiments, the tuft holes on the first face 14 have dimensions of 0.8 mm×0.8 mm to 2.0 mm×2.0 mm; of 1.0 mm×1.0 mm to 1.8 mm×1.8 mm; of 1.2 mm×1.2 mm to 1.5 mm×1.5 mm; or of about 1.4 mm×1.4 mm. In various embodiments, the head comprises tuft holes 38 which are positioned in a grid arrangement of columns (parallel to the longitudinal axes X-X and Y-Y of the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18) and rows (perpendicular to the longitudinal axes X-X and Y-Y of the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18). In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive rows is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 22 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.6 mm, or about 2.5 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive columns on the distal section is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.6 mm, or about 2.5 mm, and the distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive columns on the proximal section is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm. In some embodiments, the head includes a distal-most row 40 of tuft holes 38 and a proximal-most row 42 of tuft holes 38, in which rows the tuft holes are not aligned with the columns formed by tuft holes of other rows. In some embodiments, the tuft holes of the proximal- and distal-most rows 40, 42 are offset with respect to the columns. In some embodiments, the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 are spaced by a distance of from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, from 0.8 mm to 1.3 mm, from 1.2 mm to 1.3 mm, or about 1.10 mm from a line joining the centres of the tuft holes of a column disposed on the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18. In some embodiments, the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 are spaced by a distance of from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, from 0.8 mm to 1.3 mm, from 1.2 mm to 1.3 mm, or about 1.10 mm from lines joining the centres of the tuft holes of the columns of the proximal section 16 from which the tuft holes of the proximal-most row are offset. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 and a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the distal-most row 40 is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from 2.3 mm to 2.5 mm, or about 2.4 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 and a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the proximal-most row 42 is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.9 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.8 mm, or about 2.6 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm, and the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm.

In some embodiments, a height of the first plurality of cleaning elements 34 is equal to a height of the second plurality of cleaning elements 36.

In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 by an angle α of from 8° to 15°, from 9° to 14°, from 10° to 13°, or of about 13°. In these embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is tilted by the above angle α with respect to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 when the oral care implement is in a stressless state i.e. when no force is being applied to the implement in order to cause the distal section 18 to move relative to the proximal section 16 (such as when the implement is not in use). The distal section 18 can move with respect to the proximal section 16 upon application of force during use, but returns to its initial position with the axis X-X inclined by angle cc with respect to the axis Y-Y once any applied force has been removed. The longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section being tilted by angle cc with respect to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 allows the head to fit to the curve of the teeth, and the flexible bridge allows the head to adapt to the contours of the teeth/tooth surface.

In other embodiments, a longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16. In these embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 when the oral care implement is in a stressless state i.e. when no force is being applied to the implement in order to cause the distal section 18 to move relative to the proximal section 16 (such as when the implement is not in use). The distal section 18 can move with respect to the proximal section 16 upon application of force during use, but returns to its initial position with the axis X-X substantially aligned with the axis Y-Y once any applied force has been removed.

In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 extending from the first face 14, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the head 10. The elastomeric cleaning element 26 acts to clean the teeth and polish the tooth surface.

In some embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 is an elastomeric wall. In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a straight, linear configuration.

In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall has a distal edge remote from the first face 14, the elastomeric wall comprising at least one notch 28 extending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the fist face 14 of the head 10. The notch 28 ensures that the elastomeric cleaning wall is of the correct level of softness to provide acceptable mouthfeel to the consumer. In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall has a height measured from the first face 14 to the distal edge of the elastomeric wall, the least one notch 28 extending from the distal edge towards the first face 14 by a distance of from ⅝ to ⅞ of the height of the elastomeric wall. The further the notch 28 extends from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face, the greater the level of softness of the elastomeric wall.

In various embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 has a height which is equal to the height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36.

In other embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 has a height which is less than the height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36.

In various embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises an elastomeric material. Suitable elastomeric materials include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic elastomer.

In some embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge 20.

In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18 are formed from a rigid plastic or resin material. In various embodiments, the rigid plastic or resin material comprises polypropylene.

In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises a bridging section 30 formed from the rigid plastic or resin material, the bridging section 30 joining the proximal section 16 to the distal section 18. The presence of the bridging section 30 can provide increased ease of manufacture, for example if the head is injection-molded then the bridging section allows the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18 to be formed integrally connected by the bridging section 30. A ratio of a depth D₁ of the bridging section 30 at its narrowest point to a depth D₂ of the proximal section 16 is from 1:3 to 1:7, from 1:3.5 to 1:6, or from 1:4 to 1:5, so that the distal section 18 is flexibly movable relative to the proximal section 16, despite being connected thereto by the bridging section 30. In some embodiments, the depth D₂ of the proximal section is from 4 mm to 6.5 mm, from 4.5 mm to 6 mm, or from 5 mm to 5.5 mm. The depth of the distal section 18 maybe the same as the depth of the proximal section 16. In some embodiments, the bridging section 30 extends across an entire width of the head 10.

The length of the flexible bridge (in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16) maybe from 1.7 mm to 3.2 mm, from 2 mm to 3 mm, or from 2.3 mm to 2.7 mm. In some embodiments, a ratio of the length of the flexible bridge 20 to the length of the distal section 18 is from 1:3 to 1:5, from 1:3.5 to 1:4.5, from 1:3.8 to 1:4.2, or about 1:4. This allows for the oral care implement to have sufficient bristle density along the length of the head for effective cleaning of the teeth, while providing an acceptable level of flexibility of the distal section 18 relative to the proximal section 16.

In some embodiments, the head 10 further comprises a second face 32 on an opposite side of the head 10 to the first face 14, and wherein the bridging section 30 is located between the first face 14 and the second face 32. In some embodiments, a distance between the bridging section 30 and the first face 14 is greater than a distance between the bridging section 30 and the second face 32. In some embodiments, the distance between the bridging section 30 and the first face 14 is from 2 to 4 times greater, from 2.5 to 3.5 times greater, or about 3 times greater than the distance between the bridging section 30 and the second face 32.

In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 further comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the at least one bridging section 30. Examples of such elastomeric materials include, but are not limited to thermoplastic elastomer. In some embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge 20.

In some embodiments, he ad 10 further comprises a second face 32 located on an opposite side of the head 10 to the first face 14, the second face 32 comprising a tissue cleanser 44. In some embodiments, the tissue cleanser comprises a plurality of nubs 46 for cleansing soft tissues of the mouth e.g. the insides of the cheeks and lips, and the tongue. The inclusion of the tissue cleanser 44 allows the oral care implement to provide thorough cleaning of the oral cavity, with cleansing of soft tissues as well as cleaning of the teeth.

In some embodiments, the tissue cleanser 42 comprises an elastomeric material. Examples of suitable elastomeric material which maybe used for the tissue cleanser 42 include, but are not limited to thermoplastic elastomer.

In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises the elastomeric material and the tissue cleanser 42 is integral with the flexible bridge 20.

In certain embodiments, the head 10 has a length of from 20 mm to 40 mm, from 25 mm to 35 mm, from 27 mm to 33 mm, or about 30 mm, or about 29 mm.

In some embodiments, the he ad 10 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm, from 7 mm to 13 mm, from 9 mm to 12 mm, or about 11 mm. In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 13 mm, from 7 mm to 12 mm, from 8 mm to 11 mm, or of about 9 mm. In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm, from 7 mm to 13 mm, from 9 mm to 12 mm, or about 11 mm. In some embodiments, the maximum width of the distal section 18 is less than the maximum width of the proximal section 16. The compact head (and particularly the compact size of the distal section 18) also assists in reaching of hard-to-reach areas of the mouth, such as the back teeth, particularly for users having a smaller oral cavity size than that for which many oral care implements are designed.

In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a length which is less than a length of the proximal section 16. In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a length of from 9 mm to 13 mm, from 10 mm to 12.5 mm, from 11 mm to 12 mm or of about 11.5 mm. In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 has a length of from 14.5 mm to 17 mm, from 15 mm to 16 mm, or of about 15.4 mm. In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a length of from 11 mm to 12 mm and the proximal section 16 has a length of from 15 to 16 mm. The distal section 18 is thus able to cover the surface of a single tooth, thus providing improved ease of reach of the oral care implement to the back teeth in the mouth, while the proximal section 16 ensures an acceptable total length of the head.

In various embodiments, the ratio of the length of the distal section 18 to the length of the proximal section 16 is from 1:3 to 1:1.2, from 1:2.5 to 1:1.25, from 1:2 to 1:1.3 or about 1:1.3.

In some embodiments, the handle 12 includes a body portion 22, and a neck portion 24 connecting the head 10 to the body portion 22.

In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 of the head 10.

In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion by an angle β of from 5° to 15°, from 6° to 14°, from 7° to 13°, from 8° to 12°, from 9° to 11°, or of about 10°. The provision of this angle β between the longitudinal axes of the body portion 22 and the neck 24 provides an ergonomic handle which allows the user to reach the back teeth more easily.

In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 by an angle α of from 8° to 15°, of from 9° to 14°, from 10° to 13°, or of about 13°, and the longitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion by an angle β of from 5° to 15°, from 6° to 14°, from 7° to 13°, from 8° to 12°, from 9° to 11°, or of about 10°. The provision of both angle β between the longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 and the longitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22, and angle α between the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 and the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16, provides for improved reach of the oral care implement to clean the back teeth and rear-most areas of the mouth.

In some embodiments, the body portion 22 comprises a thumb grip 52 located adjacent to the area of connection of the body portion 22 to the neck portion 24. In one embodiment, the body portion 22 comprises the thumb grip 52 on one side thereof and a finger grip area 54 on an opposite side thereof, wherein the thumb grip 52 is located on the same side of the oral care implement as the first face 14 of the head 10. The thumb grip 52 maybe embossed/textured so as to provide an anti-slip area for increased ease of gripping of the oral care implement by a user. Where the thumb grip 52 is embossed or textured, this may also provide a massaging effect on the thumb of a user. In some embodiments, the thumb grip 52 comprises an elastomeric material in order to provide a comfortable gripping area. In such embodiments, the elastomeric material provides a gripping surface which is softer than the material (such as a rigid plastic or resin material e.g. polypropylene) from which the body portion and/or neck portion are fanned.

In some embodiments, the neck portion 24 has a maximum width of from 3 mm to 7 mm, from 4 mm to 6 mm, or of about 5 mm

In some embodiments, the body portion 22 has a maximum width of from 9 mm to 15 mm, from 10 mm to 14 mm, from 11 mm to 13 mm, or of about 15 mm.

The inventive aspects discussed above may be practiced for a manual toothbrush or a powered toothbrush. In operation, the previously described features, individually and/or in any combination, may improve the control, performance, aesthetics and cost point of oral implements. Other constructions of toothbrush are possible. For example, the head may be replaceable or interchangeable on the handle. The head may include various oral surface engaging elements, such as inter-proximal picks, brushes, flossing element plaque scrapper, tongue cleansers and soil tissue massages. While the various features of the toothbrush work together to achieve the advantages previously described, it is recognized that individual features and sub-combinations of these features can be used to obtain some of the aforementioned advantages without the necessity to adopt all of these features in an oral care implement.

While the invention has been described with respect to specific examples including presently preferred modes of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of the above described systems and techniques. It is to be understood that other embodiments maybe utilized and structural and functional modifications maybe made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Thus, the spirit and scope of the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended claims. 

1. An oral care implement comprising a head and a handle, the head comprising a first face and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the first face; wherein the head comprises a proximal section adjacent to the handle and a distal section remote from the handle; wherein the head further comprises a flexible bridge coupling the distal section to the proximal section so that the distal section is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal section, the flexible bridge further comprising at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head.
 2. (canceled)
 3. (canceled)
 4. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the proximal section and the distal section each have a straight linear edge extending in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head, wherein the straight linear edge of the distal section faces the straight linear edge of the proximal section, and wherein the flexible bridge couples the straight linear edge of the distal section to the straight linear edge of the proximal section so that the distal section is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal section.
 5. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the flexible bridge comprises an elastomeric material.
 6. (canceled)
 7. The oral care implement of claim 5, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge.
 8. (canceled)
 9. (canceled)
 10. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the flexible bridge comprises a bridging section formed from a rigid plastic or resin material, the bridging section joining the proximal section to the distal section, wherein a ratio of a depth of the bridging section at its narrowest point to a depth of the proximal section is from 1:3 to 1:7.
 11. The oral care implement of claim 10, wherein the bridging section extends across an entire width of the head.
 12. The oral care implement of claim 10, wherein the head further comprises a second face on an opposite side of the head to the first face, and wherein the bridging section is located between the first face and the second face, wherein a distance between the bridging section and the first face is greater than a distance between the bridging section and the second face. 13.-16. (canceled)
 17. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the flexible bridge comprises an elastomeric material, and wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge.
 18. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is an elastomeric wall extending along the flexible bridge in a straight, linear configuration.
 19. (canceled)
 20. The oral care implement of claim 18, wherein the elastomeric wall has a distal edge remote from the first face, the elastomeric wall comprising at least one notch extending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face of the head, wherein the elastomeric wall has a height measured from the first face to the distal edge of the elastomeric wall, the least one notch extending from the distal edge towards the first face by a distance of from ⅝ to ⅞ of the height of the elastomeric wall. 21.-33. (canceled)
 34. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the distal section has a length which is less than a length of the proximal section. 35.-40. (canceled)
 41. An oral care implement comprising a head and a handle, the head comprising a first face and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the first face; wherein the head comprises a proximal section adjacent to the handle and a distal section remote from the handle; wherein the head further comprises a flexible bridge coupling the distal section to the proximal section so that the distal section is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal section; wherein the plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements extending from the proximal section, and a second plurality of cleaning elements extending from the distal section, at least one of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements comprising tapered bristles.
 42. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the first plurality of cleaning elements comprises tapered bristles.
 43. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the second plurality of cleaning elements comprises tapered bristles.
 44. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the tapered bristles are tufted in square tuft holes.
 45. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein a height of the first plurality of cleaning elements is equal to a height of the second plurality of cleaning elements.
 46. (canceled)
 47. (canceled)
 48. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the flexible bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is an elastomeric wall that extends along the flexible bridge in a straight, linear configuration. 49.-52. (canceled)
 53. The oral care implement of claim 48, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is equal to a height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements.
 54. The oral care implement of claim 48, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is less than a height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements.
 55. (canceled)
 56. (canceled)
 57. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the flexible bridge comprises an elastomeric material, wherein the flexible bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head, and wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge. 58.-67. (canceled)
 68. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the head further comprises a second face located on an opposite side of the head to the first face, the second face comprising a tissue cleanser, wherein the tissue cleanser comprises an elastomeric material, and wherein the flexible bridge comprises the elastomeric material and wherein the tissue cleanser is integral with the flexible bridge. 69.-79. (canceled) 